Maroof Culmen is a photographer and a storyteller who showcases hidden gems through his lens and enchanting storytelling. Here are 10 times when he made us fall in love with his skills and captures.
Maroof Umar, or as he is famously known as Maroof Culmen, leaves us in awe every time he holds a camera and a mic in his hand. His unique way of representing the hidden gems and stories of people from various Indian states is exceptional. This is especially an articulation of the culture and beauty of the city of Nawabs by the storyteller as he showcases some of the most prominent stories, people, and art forms there.
1. Artisans of Lucknow
Lucknow and art is an eternal relation and what keeps these traditional art forms alive is of no surprise. The artisans who weave and paint to culminate the meticulous works like Chikankari and Naqqashi should be at the forefront is what this video states.
2. Bawarchi Khaane
Lucknow is known for its rich cuisine. From the spicey Tunday Kebab to the sweet Shahi Tukda, the Bawarchi Khaanas, aka the kitchens of this city are filled with aromas and tasty sights of the dishes being prepared there.
3. Dopalli Topi
The Dopalli Topi is like a crown on the heads of Nawabs. This skull cap is made out of cotton fabric with delicate work like Chikankari and is often worn by the people of Lucknow on special occasions. This video shows the process of making this headgear.
4. Imambara of Mughal Saheba
An exemplary representation of Stucco Art, Imambara of Mughal Sahiba, the daughter of King, Muhammed Ali Shah is situated in the city of Lucknow. The architectural marvel is a reflection of Nawabi art beautifully shown by Maroof.
5. The Story of Bilehra Fort
Ali Khan Mahmudabad narrates the lost chronicles of the lesser-known Bilehra Fort in the town. The Indo-gothic style structures are the highlights of the palace. Once a place of prime importance it has become obsolete with time.
6. Lucknow Ka Naashta
One cannot ignore the lip-smacking food from the city of Nawabs. As it holds some of the most delectable feasts, Umar has tried to capture the naashta (breakfast) available on the streets of Lucknow. With fried puris to juicy jalebis, this video will surely lure you to the town with its essence.
7. Muharram
This video is a perfect portrayal of how Muharram (the beginning of the Islamic New Year) was celebrated in the earlier days at Mahumadabad. The traditional ritual of the ceremonial horse of Husayn Ibn Ali, grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad is exhibited here.
8. Gulabo Sitabo Puppeteers
One of the unique performing arts of Uttar Pradesh, the Gulabo Sitabo Puppetry, involves a show of puppet acts with hands. These puppets are made with paper mache, wear colorful clothes, and usually perform on the streets of UP. The video features Naushad, one of the last Gulabo-Sitabo puppeteers here.
9. The Blade Sharpeners
Blade Sharpening or the Chaku Churi Dhar is one of the dying professions. The blade sharpeners used to roam on bicycles carrying knives or scissor sharpeners for reviving the blunt blades. Since old Lucknow was the center for producing knives and scissors, Maroof pays tribute to the Chaku Churi Wale through his shoots.
10. Ghats of Lucknow
Ghats of Lucknow, a series by Maroof Culmen depicts the banks alongside the rivers of the town. This part features the Pipra Ghat, sparkling with vibrant houses, walls, and streets painted with colors.
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